Daily News Snippets

WHO’s latest Disease Outbreak News warns that cholera remains a multi‑country emergency with very high risk of further spread. Between 1 January and 17 August 2025, 409,222 cholera or acute watery diarrhoea cases and 4,738 deaths were reported from 31 countries.

WHO and the World Meteorological Organization issued new guidance to protect workers from increasing heat stress. With climate change driving more frequent and intense heatwaves, the report synthesises evidence and provides practical measures for governments, employers and unions.

FAO, UNICEF, WFP and WHO confirmed famine in Gaza for the first time, urging an immediate ceasefire and unhindered humanitarian access. An Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) analysis released on 22 August 2025 estimates more than 500,000 people are already in famine

WHO has issued Medical Product Alert N°4/2025 after six lots of FENTANILO HLB (fentanyl citrate) were found contaminated in Argentina. The affected injection is used for peri‑operative analgesia and in intensive care.

Marking World Water Week 2025, WHO and UNICEF report that one in four people—about 2.1 billion—still lack access to safely managed drinking water. The joint update, “Progress on Household Drinking Water and Sanitation 2000–2024,” also notes 3.4 billion people without safely managed sanitation and 1.7 billion without basic hygiene at home.

Meghalaya is considering mandatory pre-marital HIV/AIDS screening, following Goa’s example, as part of a broader plan to address the State’s rising HIV cases.

A Johns Hopkins study found that a tailored version of the DASH diet can significantly lower blood glucose and improve time spent in the healthy range for people with type 2 diabetes. The results highlight the potential of personalized nutrition in managing chronic conditions.

Harvard researcher Antonella Zanobetti’s federally funded studies, which linked air pollution and heat to Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and heart disease, were abruptly halted by grant cancellations. The research aimed to clarify how environmental exposures contribute to rising dementia and neurological disease rates worldwide.

In Geneva, the United Nations is working on a legally binding agreement to address the plastic pollution crisis, as waste is expected to increase threefold by 2060 if no measures are implemented. The United Nations Environment Programme emphasizes the need for a fundamental transition to a circular economy, given the global threats plastic poses to health, ecosystems, and economies.

WHO released the “Compendium on Respectful Maternal and Newborn Care,” on 7th August 2025 as an evidence-based guide to help managers of maternal, newborn, and child health programs implement context-specific interventions for respectful maternity care at the facility level.

Based on the 42nd Emergency committee meeting, Afghanistan and Pakistan still continue to be at potential risk of spreading wild poliovirus 1. Appropriate immunization and surveillance measures need to be stepped up to present the spread of both WPV and cVDPV.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has confirmed that sleeping sickness, aka human African trypanosomiasis (HAT) has been eliminated from yet another African country - Kenya. Though negligible outside Africa, HAT remains an important public health concern in the continent as the severe form of disease is highly (~100%) fatal in just a few weeks when unsupervised.

A recently published study in the American Journal of Public Health estimated excess mortality in adults ≥ 25 years in a 3-year interval (2020-2023) using the ARMIA model and found that mortality for undocumented immigrants was significantly higher during the peak of the pandemic.

Under the National Medical Commission Act, 2019, individuals have been selected as part-time members for a term of two years. These appointments include nominations from State/UT Governments and State Medical Councils, many of whom previously served on the Medical Advisory Council. The selection process for NMC’s autonomous boards was also carried out, with media present to ensure transparency.

UNICEF and WHO released the 2024 global immunization coverage estimates, highlighting progress and gaps in routine childhood vaccinations. While many countries have maintained or improved coverage, others have shown a worrisome decline in vaccination coverage.

Global health experts at the UN ECOSOC meeting emphasized that preventing future pandemics requires inclusive, cross-border partnerships and proactive investment in health systems. With the adoption of a new pandemic prevention treaty, leaders stressed shifting from reactive measures to community-centered, preventive approaches.

The Union Health Ministry has issued an advisory promoting healthier eating habits at workplaces through the display of oil and sugar awareness boards. This initiative aims to educate individuals about the health risks of excessive fat and sugar consumption without targeting specific traditional foods or mandating warning labels.

UNICEF and WHO released the 2024 global immunization coverage estimates, highlighting progress and gaps in routine childhood vaccinations. While many countries have maintained or improved coverage, others have shown a worrisome decline in vaccination coverage.

Alan Geller emphasizes that using sunscreen can reduce the risk of melanoma by 50%. He recommends choosing an SPF of 30 or higher, applying it generously, and reapplying frequently. He also supports public health initiatives such as providing free sunscreen dispensers and promoting the use of protective clothing.

The 2023–24 edition of the North Eastern Region (NER) District Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) Index, developed collaboratively by NITI Aayog, the Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region (MoDoNER), and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), highlights significant progress throughout the region. Approximately 85% of districts showed an improvement in their scores, with Hnahthial in Mizoram emerging as the top-performing district. This updated version of the NER District SDG Index was formally launched by NITI Aayog, together with MoDoNER and UNDP.

India faces multiple public health challenges in 2025, including fresh outbreaks of Nipah virus, dengue, and rising influenza activity. A recent WHO report outlines the country’s response and surveillance efforts across several key diseases.

The Scientific Advisory Group for the Origins of Novel Pathogens (SAGO) in an independent assessment of how SARS-CoV-2 may have emerged in humans, supports zoonotic origin with transmission from animals to humans as the most likely explanation until further evidence is available.

India has significantly reduced the percentage of zero-dose children from 0.11% in 2023 to 0.06% in 2024 through strengthened immunization efforts, improved tracking systems, and targeted outreach to underserved communities, as per the Union Health Ministry.

Andhra Pradesh has introduced an AI-based mosquito control system that uses smart sensors and real-time data to target breeding hotspots. This aims to improve public health and reduce unnecessary chemical spraying.

<p class="font_8">To foster inclusive education, the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (<strong>DEPwD</strong>) has signed an<strong> MoU </strong>((Memorandum of Understanding)) with Sri Aurobindo Society under <strong>‘Project Inclusion’.</strong> This partnership aims at capacity building of stakeholders involved in disability education.</p>

<p class="font_8"><strong>NGO HelpAge India</strong> released a first-of-its-kind national report, '<strong>Understanding Intergenerational Dynamics and Perceptions on Ageing'</strong>, on the occasion of Elder Abuse Awareness Day observed on 15th June.</p>

<p class="font_8">The AI for Good Global Summit 2025 brings together <strong>global stakeholders</strong> to explore how artificial intelligence can drive <strong>progress toward the Sustainable Development Goals</strong>. The event emphasizes responsible, inclusive, and ethical use of AI to address pressing global challenges.</p>

<p class="font_8">Recent <strong>findings</strong> from <strong>two small clinical trials i</strong>ndicate that a<strong> pair of new antibiotics might offer safer options</strong> compared to a highly toxic antibiotic currently employed <strong>in treating drug-resistant tuberculosis (DR-TB)</strong>.</p>

<p class="font_8">Global data show that d<strong>oxycycline post-exposure prophylaxis (doxyPEP) i</strong>s likely to be<strong> ineffective against gonorrhea</strong>, with over half of Neisseria gonorrhoeae isolates worldwide resistant to tetracycline. Experts warn that rising resistance may reduce the effectiveness of doxyPEP, calling for explicit guidelines and improved monitoring of resistance.</p>
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<p class="font_8">To combat the rising burden of noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) and strengthen public health systems, the World Health Organization has launched the “3 by 35” Initiative. It urges countries to<strong> increase the prices of tobacco, alcohol, and sugary drinks by at least 50%</strong> through <strong>targeted health taxes by 2035</strong>.</p>

<p class="font_8">To strengthen international preparedness for nuclear emergencies, the World Health Organization(WHO) recently took part in a 36-hour <strong>global simulation exercise </strong>organized by the International Atomic Energy Agency(IAEA). The <strong>drill tested</strong> <strong>real-time response</strong>, <strong>coordination, and public health readiness </strong>during a simulated nuclear incident, involving multiple countries and organizations.</p>

<p class="font_8">The<strong> ESIC</strong> (Employees’ State Insurance Corporation) has started<strong> projects</strong> to <strong>lower regulatory friction</strong>, <strong>formalize healthcare</strong>, and <strong>increase accessibility to healthcare</strong>. These promote holistic care and include the <strong>SPREE Scheme (Scheme to Promote Registration of Employers/Employees)</strong>, Amnesty Scheme, Pilot Project with Charitable Hospitals, Simplified Damages Framework, and AYUSH Policy.</p>

<p class="font_8"><strong>Rheumatoid Arthritis(RA) </strong>cases are <strong>climbing globally</strong>, with <strong>South Asia facing unique challenges</strong> due to demographic shifts. India and other low and middle-income countries<strong>(LMICs) must prioritize early intervention and equitable healthcare </strong>to curb the growing burden.</p>

<p class="font_8"><strong>Drug abuse poses</strong> a serious challenge to public health and social stability. To combat this, the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment has launched the <strong>Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan</strong>, aiming <strong>to create awareness</strong> and reduce substance use.&nbsp;A<strong> national event</strong> was held on 26th June 2025 in New Delhi to mark the<strong> International Day Against Drug Abuse </strong>and highlight the progress of this campaign.</p>

<p class="font_8">The <strong>MoHFW India </strong>clarified that the <strong>COVID-19 vaccines do not cause sudden cardiac deaths</strong> in young adults, stating that genetics is the primary cause and that there is no causal link. Experts emphasise that sudden deaths occurred before COVID-19 and continue independently.</p>

<p class="font_8">The Delhi government has proposed a <strong>comprehensive mental health program</strong> to tackle <strong>rising stress and anxiety</strong> among children, working professionals, and senior citizens. This new initiative will use <strong>traditional AYUSH systems</strong> to provide<strong> accessible and anonymous </strong>support.</p>

<p class="font_8">The National Medical Commission <strong>(NMC) </strong>has introduced <strong>new regulations</strong> to make it easier to <strong>hire medical faculty</strong>.<br>
This major reform aims to address the <strong>shortage of qualified teachers</strong> and support the government's plan to significantly <strong>increase the number of medical college seats </strong>nationwide.</p>

<p class="font_8">Pune's <strong>National Institute of Virology (NIV)</strong> opened its doors to a 10-member National Media <strong>delegation</strong>, led by Dr. Manisha Verma (Additional Director General, Health Ministry), for an <strong>exclusive look </strong>at its advanced disease-fighting technologies. Health experts showcased how the institute's <strong>research on emerging viruses</strong> is shaping India's public health strategies, including COVID-19 variant studies.</p>

<p class="font_8">World leaders have pledged nearly $9 billion to support<strong> GAVI’s (Global Alliance for Vaccination and Immunisation)</strong> global vaccine initiatives for <strong>2026–2030</strong>, aiming to protect millions of children in <strong>low- and middle-income countries</strong>. The funding marks a major step toward <strong>closing immunization gaps</strong> and strengthening global health security.</p>

<p class="font_8"><strong>Strong social ties </strong>have a<strong> significant impact on health</strong>, as they decrease inflammation, reduce the likelihood of chronic illnesses, and increase longevity. In contrast,<strong> loneliness </strong>is linked to around <strong>871,000 deaths worldwide </strong>each year. The WHO’s Commission proposes a range of solutions at various levels from<strong> policy changes </strong>to <strong>community infrastructure </strong>and <strong>personal therapies </strong>to tackle isolation. They call for global initiatives, such as the recent <strong>“Knot Alone”</strong> campaign and WHO’s inaugural health assembly resolution on social connection from June 2025.</p>

<p class="font_8">American Institutes for Research (AIR) and Sanitation First, <strong>two non-profit organisations</strong>, collaborated to conduct a <strong>baseline level survey</strong> in the Tiruvallur district of Tamil Nadu,<strong> exploring the stigma surrounding menstruation</strong> and the barriers girls face towards meeting their menstrual needs.</p>

<p class="font_8">According to a recent study based on NFHS Data published in BMJ Global Health, &nbsp;has seen a decline in low birthweight babies, but four states contribute disproportionately to the problem. Socioeconomic factors and healthcare access remain key challenges, requiring targeted interventions to ensure healthier births nationwide.</p>

<p class="font_8">A recent <strong>U.S. study</strong> highlights a major public health opportunity:<strong> tens of thousands of heart attacks </strong>and <strong>strokes</strong> could be <strong>avoided</strong> each year through <strong>proper use of cholesterol-lowering therapies</strong>. Despite clear clinical guidelines, many eligible individuals remain untreated.</p>

<p class="font_8"><strong>Suriname</strong> has been recognized as <strong>malaria-free </strong>by the WHO, marking it as the <strong>first nation in the Amazon region</strong> to achieve this status, following years of <strong>dedicated efforts </strong>and &nbsp;<strong>no local cases since 2021</strong>. This achievement was made possible through <strong>effective surveillance, focused treatment, and community-driven initiatives</strong>, with ongoing vigilance required to prevent the disease's return.</p>

<p class="font_8"><strong>UNICEF</strong> has issued a <strong>warning</strong> that the global community is failing to shield children from the increasing terrors of warfare. Currently, a record 473 million children reside in conflict areas, and there has been a 25% increase in severe violations of children's rights. The organization is urging immediate international efforts to protect children from violence, exploitation, and enduring harm.</p>

<p class="font_8">A significant scoping review, published in BMJ Public Health, assessed global surveillance strategies for<strong> influenza A virus (IAV) </strong>at <strong>human-swine</strong> interfaces to inform better practices, particularly for the high-risk Southeast Asian Region. <br>
The study found that surveillance efforts are fragmented, short-term, and lack standardised protocols, revealing a critical need for a more unified approach to prevent future zoonotic outbreaks.</p>

<p class="font_8"><strong>India</strong> reaffirmed its role as a <strong>global leader</strong> in <strong>affordable healthcare</strong> during the Second Policymakers’ Forum. Organized by the <strong>Indian Pharmacopoeia Commission</strong> with support from the <strong>Ministries of Health and External Affairs</strong>, the forum served as a platform for international collaboration in medicine access and regulatory standards.</p>

<p class="font_8">A study in <em><strong>BMJ Public Health</strong></em> has brought attention to the growing cardiovascular risks faced by individuals who have both<strong> type 2 diabetes (T2D) and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD)</strong>. These conditions, which often <strong>coexist</strong>, have been found to raise the likelihood of <strong>heart-related events</strong>, highlighting the importance of integrated approaches in disease prevention and care.</p>
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<p class="font_8">For the first time, U.S. doctors have treated a patient with adenoid cystic carcinoma using<strong> step-and-shoot spot-scanning proton arc therapy (SPArc)</strong>—a precise form of proton therapy that spares healthy tissue.</p>

<p class="font_8">The newly reformed vaccine advisory committee of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) cast its initial three votes today. They advised that<strong> Americans should receive only single-dose flu vaccines</strong> that<strong> exclude t</strong>he preservative <strong>thimerosal</strong>, a stance long advocated by anti-vaccine groups.</p>

<p class="font_8">A <strong>study</strong> conducted by <strong>AIIMS, New Delhi</strong>, among <strong>urban adolescents</strong> in government schools across North India, reveals a <strong>high (41%) prevalence of vitamin B9 (folate) deficiency </strong>leading to <strong>impaired growth and development</strong>. Folate is important for growth during adolescence; hence, ensuring sufficient levels through a proper diet is essential to support development, both physical and intellectual.</p>

<p class="font_8">The United Nations Population Fund <strong>(UNFPA)</strong> authored the State of The World Population Report 2025 tackling the real fertility crisis facing the world today. India's fertility status has also been assessed.</p>

<p class="font_8">To help <strong>differentiate between Covid 19 cases and the seasonal flu</strong> common during the monsoon months, experts have given certain tips for the same.</p>

<p class="font_8">As of 20th June, 2025, <strong>India</strong> reported a <strong>rise in Covid-19</strong> cases with 18256 cases reported across India since 1st January, 2025. <strong>Kerala</strong> reported the <strong>greatest load</strong> with 6083 active cases while Delhi reported 630 active cases.</p>

<p class="font_8"><strong>Private hospitals </strong>across<strong> Tamil Nadu </strong>are grappling with a <strong>severe shortage of the Hepatitis B vaccine,</strong> making it difficult to immunize high-risk groups such as dialysis patients, healthcare workers, and immunocompromised individuals.</p>
<p class="font_8"><strong>Infant Vaccination</strong> under Universal Immunisation Programme <strong>(UIP) remains unaffected</strong>, however, &nbsp;adult doses remain scarce, especially in districts like <strong>Chennai, Madurai, and Tiruchi</strong>.</p>

<p class="font_8"><strong>President Trump threatened to impose tariffs</strong> of 25% or more on imported medications in April. The aim was to <strong>motivate pharmaceutical firms</strong> to set up operations in the United States, thereby generating employment and decreasing reliance on foreign sources during crises. While the effectiveness remains uncertain, health experts warn these tariffs would likely <strong>increase drug prices </strong>and <strong>shortages</strong>.</p>

<p class="font_8">A<strong> pioneering AI system </strong>developed by Hyderabad researchers could transform fatty liver diagnosis across India, using routine medical data to deliver <strong>95% accurate results</strong> at a fraction of current costs.</p>

<p class="font_8" style="text-align: justify">With an emphasis on <strong>danger identification and viral genome analysis</strong>, WHO is creating resources and collaborating with countries to strengthen their defences against upcoming pandemics. Health risks are spreading faster than ever in our globalised society, thus constant innovation is needed to save lives and prevent the next pandemic.</p>

<p class="font_8" style="text-align: justify">Harvard scientist John Quackenbush is revealing how cancer develops by studying not just genes, but the regulatory networks that control them. His pioneering tools,<strong> PANDA and PHOENIX</strong>, are transforming our understanding of cancer and guiding new strategies for early intervention.</p>

<p class="font_8" style="text-align: justify">Originating from a discussion on a social media platform, experts have compiled a comprehensive spreadsheet of randomized, placebo-controlled trials (RCTs) of <strong>licensed vaccines </strong>to <strong>debunk myths and counter vaccine hesitancy.</strong></p>

<p class="font_8" style="text-align: justify">A recent Science study describes an innovative<strong> “garden and cover-crop” </strong>approach that includes<strong> oral vaccination</strong> plus <strong>niche-competitor bacteria</strong> to eliminate multidrug-resistant pathogens from the intestine. This dual strategy could revolutionize the prevention of infection without relying on antibiotics.</p>

<p class="font_8" style="text-align: justify">The <strong>Ayush Suraksha Portal</strong>, launched on May 30, 2025, provides a dedicated platform for reporting misleading advertisements and adverse effects related to AYUSH treatments. This initiative enhances safety and transparency within traditional medicine systems.</p>

<p class="font_8" style="text-align: justify">A Gazette Notification from the Government of India sets <strong>1st March 2027</strong> as the <strong>confirmed reference date</strong> for the <strong>nationwide census</strong>, effectively replacing the earlier, delayed plan for the population count.</p>

<p class="font_8" style="text-align: justify">The World Health Organization <strong>(WHO)</strong> published its inaugural position paper in the <strong>W</strong>eekly <strong>E</strong>pidemiological <strong>R</strong>ecord, emphasizing the immunization to protect infants from Re<a href="https://www.who.int/news/item/30-05-2025-who-outlines-recommendations-to-protect-infants-against-rsv-respiratory-syncytial-virus">spiratory Syncytial Virus</a> <strong>(RSV)</strong>. This marks WHO’s first formal guidance on RSV-specific vaccines and monoclonal antibodies for infants.</p>

<p class="font_8" style="text-align: justify"><strong>Under 5 acute malnutrition</strong> is a serious global health issue, with Kenya facing a considerable burden. Despite a decade of collecting clinical data through the District Health Information Software-2 <strong>(DHIS2)</strong>, Kenya's government is still working on useful tools for timely forecasting of malnutrition, with challenges to predict short term changes in malnutrition rates. This study aims to counteract this by using machine learning and different indicators to improve the prediction rates of under 5 acute malnutrition in Kenya.</p>

<p class="font_8" style="text-align: justify">From $10 billion in 2014 to $165.7 billion in 2024, <strong>India's bioeconomy has expanded</strong>. In terms of biotechnology, India is <strong>ranked 12th</strong> in the world and <strong>third</strong> in Asia-Pacific for <strong>biotechnology</strong>. It has created the <strong>first DNA-based vaccine and HIV and Dengue diagnostic kits in history.</strong></p>

<p class="font_8" style="text-align: justify">A recent study by the US-based research group <strong>Climate Central</strong> analysed the extent to which <strong>pregnant women </strong>have been <strong>exposed to excessive heat </strong>since 2020 and the extent to which climate change is responsible. The study showed that &nbsp;<strong>heat waves</strong> can <strong>raise</strong> the <strong>odds of pregnancy complications by 1.25 times</strong>. Due to rising exposure to extreme heat, climate change is significantly increasing the risk of pregnancy complications worldwide.</p>

<p class="font_8" style="text-align: justify">Niloufer Hospital in Hyderabad unveiled a <strong>new AI-based diagnostic tool </strong>called <strong>Amruth Swastha Bharat</strong>, developed by Quick Vitals to provide <strong>non-invasive diagnostic blood and vitals testing.</strong></p>

<p class="font_8" style="text-align: justify">A longitudinal retrospective population-based study assessed the <strong>effectiveness of HPV vaccination</strong> and the incidence of invasive cervical cancer in Scotland. Data from 448,000 individual records from the Scottish Cervical Call Recall System <strong>(SCCRS)</strong> provide supportive evidence of the effectiveness of <strong>three doses of the bivalent HPV vaccine</strong> in preventing <strong>invasive cervical cancer </strong>later in life when given to girls aged 12–13 years.</p>

<p class="font_8" style="text-align: justify">A large-scale retrospective cohort study was conducted in Singapore, which revealed that individuals recovering from <strong>dengue</strong> face a significantly <strong>higher risk</strong> of death, hospitalization, and long-term complications across multiple organ systems.</p>

<p class="font_8" style="text-align: justify"><strong>Improving indoor air quality </strong>can not only reduce breathing problems—it can also lead to <strong>beneficial changes </strong>in the <strong>gut microbiome</strong>, according to a new <a href="https://ehp.niehs.nih.gov/doi/10.1289/EHP16002">study</a>.</p>

<p class="font_8" style="text-align: justify">The government has launched <strong>Swachh Survekshan Grameen 2025</strong>, India’s largest <strong>rural sanitation survey</strong>, to evaluate and rank cleanliness across the nation. This initiative aims to sustain progress toward a <strong>"Clean India."</strong></p>

<p class="font_8" style="text-align: justify">At the <strong>78th World Health Assembly</strong>, India reinforced its commitment to blending <strong>traditional medicine with modern healthcare</strong>. The nation endorsed the new<strong> WHO Global Traditional Medicine Strategy 2025–2034</strong>, promoting an evidence-based approach to global traditional health.</p>

<p class="font_8" style="text-align: justify"><strong>Seed oils</strong> are a source of <strong>essential fatty acids </strong>that contribute to cardiovascular and metabolic health when consumed in moderation. Despite assertions by some wellness influencers who attribute various health issues to seed oils and label them as toxic, scientific research consistently contradicts these claims.</p>

<p class="font_8">A large-scale study on the longitudinal <strong>Born in Bradford cohort </strong>provides new insights into the <strong>associations of high maternal BMI with increased rates of hospital admissions</strong> due to infections among children from birth to 15 years of age. The study demonstrates good methodological rigor. However, other potential confounders and the effect of secular trends need to be explored.</p>

<p class="font_8" style="text-align: justify">The growing <strong>digital divide</strong> in access to reliable health information among young adults, particularly those who are marginalized and vulnerable, in lower-middle-income countries, is a significant concern. This study offers insight into their lived experiences and highlights their need for training in rights and digital empowerment.</p>

<p class="font_8" style="text-align: justify">Prime Minister Modi highlighted the country's commitment to<strong> TB elimination</strong>, highlighting the success of the<strong> 100-Day TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan initiative</strong>, AI-driven diagnostics, and decentralization of services, leading to a 21% decrease in TB mortality and incidence.</p>

<p class="font_8" style="text-align: justify">To tackle worsening air pollution, the Commission for Air Quality Management <strong>(CAQM) </strong>has issued <strong>strict instructions</strong> to <strong>prevent open waste burning and landfill fires </strong>across Delhi–NCR. These measures focus on enhanced monitoring, waste management improvements, and fire safety to protect the region’s air quality.</p>

<p class="font_8" style="text-align: justify">On May 30, 2025, the Union Health Minister held a review meeting with Health Ministers of six States/UTs to assess progress on <strong>TB and Measles-Rubella elimination</strong>, and the implementation of<strong> PM-ABHIM</strong> and <strong>15th Finance Commission </strong>funds. He emphasized targeted screening, improved diagnostics, and faster infrastructure development.</p>

<p class="font_8" style="text-align: justify">The Union Health Ministry has issued <strong>new, standardised guidelines</strong> for medical practitioners to certify when <strong>Tuberculosis (TB) patients are no longer infectious</strong>. This move aims to facilitate their safe and timely return to work, tackling issues of job loss and social stigma.</p>

<p class="font_8" style="text-align: justify">The Ministry of Education is intensifying its efforts to establish <strong>Tobacco-Free Educational Institutions (ToFEI)</strong> through a new nationwide enforcement drive. This initiative, prompted by recent high-level discussions of the Narco Coordination Centre <strong>(NCORD)</strong>, chaired by the Home Secretary, aims to bolster existing regulations that protect students from substance abuse.</p>

<p class="font_8" style="text-align: justify">On the occasion of <strong>World No Tobacco Day</strong>, WHO emphasizes the ill effects of flavoring in the tobacco industry and demands a <strong>strategic ban</strong> on all the<strong> flavoured tobacco</strong> and related products and raising awareness regarding alarming industry marketing tactics to lure the youth.</p>

<p class="font_8" style="text-align: justify">A major <strong>HIV vaccine trial </strong>in South Africa, expected to begin in 2025, has been <strong>halted</strong> due to <strong>sudden U.S. funding cuts</strong>, leaving vital research and prevention efforts on hold. The cuts have also led to clinic closures, job losses, and the <strong>shutdown</strong> of key projects like<strong> MATRIX</strong>. Researchers are now seeking alternative funding to sustain HIV prevention work amid growing uncertainty.</p>

<p class="font_8" style="text-align: justify">Between December 2024 and April 2025, <strong>five American countries</strong> reported 212 confirmed <strong>yellow fever cases</strong> with 85 deaths (<strong>Case Fatality Rate ~40%</strong>). WHO has declared it a <strong>serious public health concern</strong>, urging improved vaccination, surveillance, and cross-border coordination to control the disease.</p>

<p class="font_8">A study conducted at the<strong> Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health </strong>found that <strong>antimalarial compounds</strong> in<strong> bed nets </strong>blocked parasite transmission in mosquitoes while <strong>avoiding insecticide resistance</strong>. The finding enhances understanding of mosquito-stage parasite<strong> (gametocyte) </strong>targets and establishes groundwork for preventing malaria transmission.</p>

<p class="font_8" style="text-align: justify">The <strong>53rd situation report </strong>on the <strong>Monkeypox outbreak</strong> affecting multiple countries highlights global epidemiological data up to 30 April 2025.It provides an overview of Africa’s epidemiological status as of 18 May 2025, details on imported <strong>Clade I MPXV cases</strong> as of 21 May, and operational response updates as of 23 May 2025.</p>

<p class="font_8" style="text-align: justify">The latest <strong>Lancet Commission </strong>highlights the urgent need to <strong>prioritize adolescent health and well-being</strong>. As youth face growing global challenges, the report calls for coordinated action to address their complex and evolving health needs.</p>

<p class="font_8" style="text-align: justify">World leaders pledged <strong>US$ 210 million</strong> to the World Health Organization <strong>(WHO)</strong> at a high-level event on Tuesday at the Seventy-eighth World Health Assembly in Geneva. Leaders reiterated their support for <strong>multilateral cooperation</strong> through contributions to WHO's Investment Round <strong>(IR)</strong>. Member States endorsed a US$ 90 million annual increase in Assessed Contributions, marking a step towards WHO's sustainable financing.</p>

<p class="font_8" style="text-align: justify"><strong>Community-acquired pneumonia</strong> remains a major driver of pediatric hospitalizations and mortality worldwide, yet clinician judgment alone can miss high-risk cases or lead to unnecessary admissions. To bridge this gap, the Pediatric Emergency Research Network <strong>(PERN)</strong> has developed and validated two robust bedside prediction models that accurately stratify children by risk of progression to moderate or severe CAP.</p>

<p class="font_8" style="text-align: justify">Coal India Limited's CSR (<strong>Corporate Social Responsibility</strong>) initiative, Thalassemia Bal Sewa Yojana (<strong>TBSY</strong>), has provided <strong>free bone marrow transplants</strong> to over 700 children with thalassemia and aplastic anaemia, enhancing their health and reducing financial burdens.</p>

<p class="font_8" style="text-align: justify">India has officially endorsed the <strong>WHO Pandemic Treaty </strong>at the <strong>78th World Health Assembly</strong>, reinforcing its commitment to global health security. Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized the crucial role of the Global South in shaping resilient health systems and highlighted India’s efforts to make healthcare more accessible and equitable.</p>

<p class="font_8" style="text-align: justify">The U.S. FDA has approved the <strong>first blood-based diagnostic test</strong> to aid in the early detection of <strong>Alzheimer’s disease</strong>. The <strong>Lumipulse G pTau217/ß-Amyloid 1-42 Plasma Ratio</strong> offers a less invasive, more accessible alternative to PET scans and spinal taps for identifying amyloid plaques in cognitively impaired adults.</p>

<p class="font_8" style="text-align: justify">India has identified a<strong> new COVID-19 subvariant, NB.1.8.1,</strong> from a sample sequenced in April from Tamil Nadu. Experts suggest that while this variant may be more contagious, the symptoms observed are generally mild.</p>

<p class="font_8" style="text-align: justify"><strong>India</strong> is witnessing a <strong>significant and steady decline</strong> in <strong>maternal and child mortality rates</strong>, putting the nation on a strong path towards achieving its <strong>2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)</strong>. These health indicators reveal India is progressing at a rate greater than the worldwide average.</p>

<p class="font_8">COVID-19 cases rose in several Southeast Asian countries in April-May, driven by JN.1 subvariants (LF.7, NB.1.8), probably due to periodic waves and waning immunity. Authorities are monitoring the situation closely.</p>

<p class="font_8" style="text-align: justify">The cuts are a blow to the country’s aspirations to eliminate TB. Although the country has the highest TB burden in the world and accounts for <a href="https://www.who.int/teams/global-programme-on-tuberculosis-and-lung-health/tb-reports/global-tuberculosis-report-2024/tb-disease-burden/1-1-tb-incidence#:~:text=In%202023%2C%20eight%20countries%20accounted,Congo%20(3.1%25)%20(Fig.">26% of all TB cases</a>, India’s Health Minister,<strong> Mr. JP Nadda,</strong> recently said he expects<strong> India will eliminate TB by the end of this year</strong>. Few experts believe India will reach that goal this year—or anytime soon—given that the disease causes at least<a href="https://www.who.int/teams/global-programme-on-tuberculosis-and-lung-health/tb-reports/global-tuberculosis-report-2024"> 2.8 million new cases</a> and 325,000 deaths each year.</p>

<p class="font_8" style="text-align: justify">The <strong>78th World Health Assembly </strong>adopts the <strong>world’s first pandemic agreement</strong> on May 20, 2025. Shaped by the experiences of COVID-19, this agreement is the outcome of three years of dialogue and represents a significant milestone towards improving global coordination and strengthening health systems for future pandemic prevention, preparation for, and response.</p>

<p class="font_8" style="text-align: justify">First of its kind, a convenient and easy-to-use <strong>self-sampling kit</strong> named <strong>Teal Wand </strong>for <strong>cervical cancer screening</strong> was approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (<strong>FDA</strong>). The kit enables women to collect cervical samples at home, hence can prove useful in improving screening coverage.</p>

<p class="font_8" style="text-align: justify">The <strong>C</strong>entral <strong>B</strong>oard of <strong>S</strong>econdary <strong>E</strong>ducation (<strong>CBSE</strong>) has instructed its affiliated schools to set up <strong>“sugar boards”</strong> aimed at monitoring and reducing sugar consumption among students, considering the rising incidence of<strong> Type 2 diabetes in children.</strong></p>

<p class="font_8" style="text-align: justify"><strong>AIIMS Raipur</strong> has achieved a significant milestone by becoming the<strong> first </strong>government institution in <strong>Chhattisgarh</strong>, and the first among the newer AIIMS, to successfully perform a <strong>Swap Kidney Transplant</strong>. This advancement in the area of organ transplantation is estimated to contribute to a 15% increase in kidney transplant rates nationwide.</p>